a blog prepared for Perfect Plate with Vesta
Submission by Rosetta Danigole, LDN, RD Bariatric Dietitian

Using the plate method for preparation of meals after bariatric surgery, let us be honest, can be pretty boring. After all who wants to always eat baked fish or chicken and vegetables? After a while you might want to throw in the towel.

It’s a lot more enjoyable to come up with creative meals that create a sense of home-style cooking and exciting taste tempting options. Just because you are on a weight loss journey does not mean that you are in a mundane routine of meals.

First it is important to remember though that the plate method is an excellent way to keep on track. But you can use the plate in a much more creative and exciting way by coming up with meals that can replace some of your favorite options.

For instance, let’s say you want the taste of a juicy hamburger—here is way to make that happen.

Try a hamburger salad—Add all the items you would put on your burger (Lettuce/tomato/onions)- substitute either low calorie mayo or a light Dijon mustard for the salad dressing—then add the lean patty (maybe either chicken/turkey or lean ground beef) – Yum! That beats fast food any day.

Craving BBQ?

You can make colorful skewers—Try grilling either shrimp/chicken on a skewer with colorful vegetables – try something out of the ordinary like purple carrots/yellow beets/or red bell peppers. Add your favorite BBQ seasoning and VOILA- you have a juicy barbecue. If you want to try beef remember to give yourself time to heal and digest it which typically about 4-6 months. Marinate it to make it tenderer.

What about a home cooked meal? Sometimes you just want what I call a “Mama meal”.

It is something that was cooked in the family and brings you happy memories. Everyone has something. It could be spaghetti and meatballs to pot roast. It’s very specific to the family. This is where you need to practice substitutions. Here are some tips to make that happen. Focus on the protein—try to substitute the carbohydrate like pasta, rice, potatoes for an appropriate swap- like zucchini pasta/ cauliflower rice and turnips. It’s up to you! Be creative.

Missing the crispy crunchy fried food texture?

Use almond flour to bread your chicken/shrimp and season like the meal like you want to place in air fryer and have crispy chicken nuggets or crunchy fried shrimp.

Remember to always use healthy fats like olive oil or avocado oil and you won’t need too much because you are not eating large portions.

Your journey is so exciting and fun! Learning how to make the most of your life starts today.